Once you leave the airport, the physical shops legally allowed to sell wine, full-strength beer, or spirits are the state-run Vínbúðin stores. Where to Buy Your Alcohol in Iceland

The most common advice for anyone visiting Iceland is to buy your wine at the Duty Free Store immediately upon arrival. It is located right by the baggage claim area before you exit customs.

You are allowed up to 6 units of alcohol total. For wine specifically, this allows for common combinations like:

Buying wine in Iceland can be a surprise for many travelers because it isn't sold in standard grocery stores. Instead, the country operates under a state-run monopoly system, meaning you have to visit specific stores or the airport to stock up. 1. Duty-Free at Keflavík Airport (Best Value)

1 liter of spirits, 0.75 liters of wine, and 3 liters of beer. 2. Vínbúðin (State-Run Liquor Stores)

Prices at the airport are significantly lower—sometimes up to 25% to 50% cheaper than in town.

3 liters of wine (roughly four 750ml bottles) and 6 liters of beer.

UPCOMING WEBINAR: Understanding the IT–User Experience Gap in 2025

Research Review with Anunta’s CTO | Jan 14 | 12PM PST/3PM EST